South Jersey Chapter of Jack and Jill teams up with American Red Cross for sickle cell disease blood drive

This weekend in South Jersey, a blood drive will take place to raise awareness for sickle cell disease, coinciding with the start of Black History Month. Sickle cell disease is the most prevalent inherited blood disorder, and the need for blood donations from Black individuals is critical for effective treatment. This initiative aims to support numerous families, including one in Montgomery County.

Qamra Williams and her 13-year-old son Cameron, who live in Horsham, are among those directly affected by this condition. Cameron, a seventh grader, balances his schoolwork while actively participating in sports like basketball, football, and track. However, he also struggles with sickle cell disease, which affects his ability to enjoy these activities due to the severe pain it causes.

As a nurse, Williams is all too familiar with the pain associated with sickle cell disease but finds it especially challenging when it is her own child who suffers. Blood transfusions remain the primary treatment for sickle cell disease, and the chances of finding a compatible match are significantly higher among Black or African American donors.

Denise Anderson from the American Red Cross emphasizes the importance of increasing donations from the Black community, noting that individuals with sickle cell disease may need up to 100 units of blood per year for effective treatment. The blood drive scheduled for February 1 is co-sponsored by the Red Cross and the South Jersey Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, an organization focused on empowering Black youth.

Williams expresses pride in her community for participating in this meaningful event, highlighting the necessity of raising awareness about sickle cell disease and its impact on the African American community. Her family's commitment to ensuring Cameron's well-being is a testament to the ongoing need for support and education surrounding this critical health issue.